Cafe Otowa

6 Chome-583-31 Gojobashihigashi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0846, Japan
+81 75-551-2336
$$$ cafe
(81 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1,000–2,000

Located in the heart of Higashiyama Ward, Cafe Otowa is more than just a cafe; it’s a sensory experience that invites you to indulge in the charming ambiance of Kyoto. The artistry of this cafe shines through its remarkable menu, featuring a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and contemporary culinary creativity.

As you step into Cafe Otowa, you're welcomed by a warm, inviting atmosphere, enhanced by carefully curated lighting and unique sound design that makes each visit feel special. The setting is perfect for relaxation, whether you're enjoying a quiet moment alone or catching up with friends over delicious treats.

Food lovers will be enamored by the selection of dishes that include mouthwatering rice and meat combinations, delectable hot dogs, and an array of delightful desserts. In particular, the matcha desserts are a highlight. Customers rave about the Matcha Shaved Ice, which strikes a perfect balance between being strong and sweet, while the Green Tea Ice Parfait has been described as “next level,” sure to excite any matcha aficionado.

In addition to the savory offerings, the cafe is renowned for what is possibly the best lemonade in Kyoto. Refreshing and perfectly balanced, it pairs beautifully with the food, making Cafe Otowa an ideal stop for a light meal or a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Customer feedback further emphasizes the cafe's stellar reputation. Roxy C-Gonzalez shares, “Desserts...they are worth every bite! Just the right amount of sweetness,” while Christina Lipcheva praises the Japanese curry and mentions returning multiple times to savor the exquisite coffee and tea options.

For those seeking a picturesque spot to enjoy their meal, be sure to grab a window seat that overlooks a serene bamboo forest, making your dining experience not just delightful on the palate, but visually pleasing as well. Just a note: while the ambiance is inviting, remember that everyone in your party must order an item to fully enjoy the offerings.

Whether you're a local or a visitor exploring Kyoto, Café Otowa promises an unparalleled one-stop destination for food, ambiance, and an authentic taste of local cuisine. A genuine treasure in the bustling city, it’s a place you'll eagerly want to return to time and again.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday

11:30 AM - 06:00 PM

81 Reviews
Roxy C-Gonzalez

09 Oct 2025

Desserts...they are worth every bite! Just the right amount of sweetness, not too sweet and not bland. Great atmosphere, good serving of food, and great customer service.

Justin K

29 Sep 2025

Delicious cafe that me and my friends go to every time we are in the area. The atmosphere is impeccable and truly unique with their lightning and sound design. The food is also wonderful with different kinds of rice and meat dishes, hot dogs, and possibly the best lemonade in Kyoto. The last time we visited would be our third time, and it continues to impress everyone we take Highly recommended and in a great spot while traveling up to Kiyomizu-dera.

Juby Loo

27 Sep 2025

Amazing matcha desserts. Matcha Shaved ice was strong and sweet. But the Green Tea Ice Parfat was next level. Get the window seat next to bamboo forest and enjoy the Ice cold AC. Will come back. Note: everyone in party must order an item.

Azen Pearce

22 Sep 2025

Great experience! High quality food and nice service

Christina Lipcheva

28 Aug 2025

Five stars all around, this is the perfect cafe / lunch spot! The food is delicious, especially the Japanese curry! The tea and coffee are excellent also! We came here several times during our stay in Kyoto to enjoy lunch or a coffee/tea break.

N Jackson

03 Aug 2025

We have been two times in 3 days! They really care about the quality of the food. Good place for a meal, snack, desert or drinks. Everything we have tried is Yummy I watched her make my shaved ice and she even put some strawberry inside

Ondrej Dolejsi

13 Jul 2025

Great hotdogs and beer. We were served a hotdog as a take way even though the restaurant was about to close.

Albert Wilson

20 Jun 2025

Recommend the hot dog with cheese and sukiyaki! Apple soda was refreshing too

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